Hobbies And Interests
Common Locations
Hardy in U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) plant hardiness zones 5 through 8, shingle oak grows in a broad assortment of habitats. Some of its common environments are deep gorges, fields, valleys, outskirts of grasslands, arid uplands, dense woodlands, slopes and areas by creeks. Shingle oak usually adjusts easily to lots of kinds of locations, and mammals and birds frequently feed on the tree's acorns. Shingle oak is seen frequently close to trees such as eastern red cedar (Juniperus virginiana) and honey locust (Gleditsia triacanthos). Eastern red cedar is hardy in USDA zones 2 through 9 while honey locust is hardy in USDA zones 3 through 8.
Cultural Requirements
Shingle oak does well in thick soil that is acidic and damp. Good soil drainage is also a major benefit for the tree. If water filters rapidly into soil without accumulating, then the soil's drainage capacity probably is suitable for a shingle oak. Generally, however, the tree can become used to many soil types, including soil that is not damp. When a shingle oak is immature, it can tolerate a little shade. A mature specimen, however, does best in a site that receives partial or full sun exposure.
Basic Characteristics
The tree is capable of growing about 70 feet in height. Some of its defining physical traits include deep-green, willowy foliage, narrow twigs, brownish-gray bark and a wide crown. The name "shingle oak" is a nod to the tree's wood, which breaks apart readily and, therefore, historically was employed for the production of wood shingles.
Daily Sightings
Shingle oak is a typical fixture in parks and in front of homes with substantially sized yards. With pruning, the tree sometimes can be beneficial as a privacy hedge. Also, it often is used for shade.